Savor the Monsoon with Nidhi Bothra's Stuffed Corn Baati: A Rajasthani Delight

Ever wondered how to elevate a traditional dish to suit the monsoon season? Nidhi Bothra, a vegetarian food blogger and digital content creator, brings you an innovative twist on the classic Rajasthani baati with her Stuffed Corn Baati. Perfect for the rainy days, this recipe uses in-season corn to create a comforting and delicious dish. But what makes this version so special? Let's explore the recipe that promises to warm your heart and soul!

Ingredients for a Flavorful Experience

Baati Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup semolina
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp carom seeds (ajwain)
• 1 tsp baking powder or 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 4 tbsp ghee
• 1/4 cup yogurt
• Water as needed

Corn Potato Stuffing Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp oil
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/4 tsp asafoetida powder (hing)
• 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tsp ginger-green chili paste
• 1 tbsp cilantro with tender stems
• 2 small potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1 1/2 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp mango powder (amchur)
• 1/2 tsp black salt
• 1 tsp roasted cumin powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cashews, broken into small pieces

Preparing the Corn Potato Filling

Start by preparing the filling that gives this dish its unique flavor. Grind the whole spice masala ingredients (coriander seeds, fennel, cloves, mace, peppercorns) using a mortar and pestle and set them aside. Pulse the corn in a blender just enough to combine, ensuring it retains some texture.

Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds and asafoetida powder, letting them crackle. Add the pulsed corn and sauté for 3-4 minutes over medium heat. Incorporate the ginger-green chili paste, and if using fresh corn, sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons of water. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes until the water evaporates, leaving the corn slightly crunchy.

Add the boiled potatoes, chopped cilantro, and the prepared spices. Sauté the mixture for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined. Finish the filling with more cilantro and cashews for added flavor and crunch.

Crafting the Perfect Baati Dough

To make the baati dough, mix whole wheat flour, semolina, salt, baking powder, carom seeds, and ghee in a bowl. Blend these ingredients using your hands until the mixture forms loose clumps. Gradually add yogurt to bring the mixture together into a semi-soft dough, using water as needed. This semi-soft texture is crucial for properly encasing the corn filling.

Let the dough rest for 15-20 minutes while you finish preparing the corn filling.

Shaping and Baking the Stuffed Corn Baati

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide the rested dough into equal portions, approximately 12 pieces, and shape them into balls. Flatten each ball in your hands, place a spoonful of the corn filling in the center, and seal the dough around the filling. Shape the filled dough into a baati shape using your palms.

Arrange the baatis on a baking tray and bake them for 30-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning. The baatis are ready when they develop a golden brown crust and show small cracks, indicating a perfect bake.

Once baked, gently press each baati to create small cracks, allowing them to better absorb the ghee. Dip or roll each baati in melted ghee, ensuring they are well-coated and moist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Nidhi Bothra's Stuffed Corn Baatis with a generous helping of Tomato Peach Chutney, garlic chutney, and mint-cilantro chutney for a burst of flavors. For a traditional touch, enjoy them with Rajasthani dal, completing a comforting and hearty meal perfect for the monsoon season.

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Nidhi Bothra's Stuffed Corn Baati brings an innovative twist to a traditional Rajasthani dish, making it perfect for the monsoon season. This recipe not only celebrates the seasonal abundance of corn but also adds a modern flair to a beloved classic. Whether you're hosting a get-together or simply craving some comfort food, this Stuffed Corn Baati is sure to impress and delight. Try it out and enjoy the cozy, warm flavors that it brings to your table!